Charlotte Hornets center Al Jefferson has been suspended by the NBA for five games due to a violation of the league’s anti-drug policy. Jefferson, who is currently on the sidelines due to a calf injury, will be suspended after his return. The league’s anti-drug policy only has one five-game suspension listed and that is for a third failed marijuana test.
The Hornets have released the following statement:
We are disappointed in Al’s decisions that led to this suspension. As an organization, we do not condone this behavior. We have addressed this with Al. He is regretful and understands that we expect him to learn from this mistake
Jefferson, meanwhile, has released his own personal statement expressing regret for his actions:
I want to apologize to the Hornets organization, our owner, my teammates and my coaches for the poor decision that I made. I know I have let people down, especially the Hornets fans that have been so supportive of me since I arrived in Charlotte two years ago. I am blessed to be able to play the game that I love for a living and I do not take that for granted. From the bottom of my heart, I am truly sorry, and I am committed to making smarter decisions in the future
The Hornets have had a better-than-expected start to their season. Losing Jefferson for an extended amount of time may have a negative impact on the team’s playoff chances. Jefferson seems to have made the same mistake two previous times so to be busted for a third time is not a very smart move on his part and his team may suffer the consequences shortly.
